Arts and Entertainment Books

This is definately a winner! Great little gems from Walt Disney's family, closest friends and colleagues. The pictures are equally wonderful. Great candid shots and personal family photos. This man had more character than Mickey Mouse himself!

The pictures were nice. I'm a big Dinsey fan so I pretty much enjoyed this book. It told what people who worked with him thought about him. I gave the book four stars because there were some bad words.

This book is exactly as one would expect by reading the title. It's just quote after quote from people who knew Walt Disney best. I liked that many of his former employees were interviewed. Since I was familiar with some of the animators, imagineers, and actors it made it a more personal thing for me when reading this book. There are also many pictures that show Walt during all the different periods of his life, though the majority of them are during his successful years heading the Disney corporation. I share the sympathy of another reviewer who said that after reading this book they wished they had known Walt Disney. I think a person who really admires the Disney empire will share the same sentiments about the man who dared to dream.

This lavishly illustrated tribute --- first published in 1999 and now released as an oversized trade paperback --- is a must for diehard Disneyites. (Dig the vintage, time-worn color
cover photo of Uncle Walt, with Cousin Oscar clearly in view.) Amy Boothe Green and Howard Green's text is nothing more than quote after quote from Walt's pals, peers, co-stars, family and friends, all of whom (surprise!) praise The Man Who Would Be King. But it's the vast array of black-and-white and color photographs --- many rare and many never-before-seen, all of which are stuffed into the pages --- that make this a winner. Walt as a young boy. Walt as a young man. Walt at play. Walt at work. Walt with family. Walt with friends. Walt with Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke. Walt with Hayley Mills. Walt with Shirley Temple. Walt with Annette Funicello, who provides the book's most poignant quote: "When I was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis ... I thought,. "If Mr. Disney were here, I could ask him what I should do. He would know." And, of course, Walt with the Mouse and the Mouseketeers. Noting goofy here. Except Goofy.

I was very happy while reading this book. I found all the things Walt's aquaintances had to say about him very interesting and credible. Very little seemed sugar coated (as Disney personel seem to be sometimes). I would make the assumption that Walt's personality was portrayed correctly by the many people that knew him. Throughout the course of reading this book I kept thinking about the quote that one amazon reviewer said that made me buy this book in the first place, "makes me wish I knew that man."

When you watch the Olympics, remember that Chill that goes down your spine when you see someone do the impossible? I had that feeling repeatedly reading this book. You follow the Mighty Atom through his childhood, learning valuable life lessons with him, that serve you both well. You picture in your mind's eye what it must take to bend steel in your bare hands, break chains across your chest, and other impossible feats. This tiny man who performed feats of strength into his eighties, through sheer willpower and determination....

I've never read a more inspirational book. I can see why copies are almost impossible to find.

If I could own only two books, one would be my Bible and the other Ed Spielman's remarkable biography of Joe Greenstein, a.k.a. The Mighty Atom.

Here was a man who exalted in life, exuded life and understood life far, far better than most.

Do you have problems in life? Who doesn't? After you read this book you will be able to take to heart the words of the Atom's protege, Slim Farman: "I never had to prove to him that I was somebody. He told me I was."

And the words of Joe Greenstein himself: "There is no such thing as a little man, and nothing is impossible."

Whatever it takes, GET A COPY OF THIS BOOK!

I simply can't say enough good things about this incredible story. If you love weight-training and strength sports, if you want a snapshot of a nearly forgotten part of early 20th Century American life, if you wish to be inspired, read this. You will not be disappointed.

In his prime, Joseph Greenstein was the world's "strongest man" physically and billed as 'The Modern Hercules,' 'The Young Sandow," and 'The Ancient Samson' all in one -- The Mighty Atom, though he never did fly out of a canon. He rose from the ghettos of Poland, in Eastern Europe, to become the most famous of the weightlifter-strongmen ever.

He was a slim 5'4" body builder, weighing in at 145 pounds; the photo shows him as a young man showing off his becepts. In vaudeville at the Apollo Theatre he was billed as Joseph Green. He looked like a freak in bushy hair and Tarzan outfits complete with matching headband and funny looling shoes which strapped up his leg to the knee. That must have been the style in 1909. In his act, he straightened out hourshoes, crushed spikes in his hands, even had strong teeth -- bit through iron bars.

He used Asian techniques of concentration, Jewish mystical writings, and a natural begetarian diet. Who said it akes eating meat to make one strong? He later developed a more balanced body physique. Joseph appeared on Coney Island, the playground of the world, as shown in the movie, 'Inside Daisy Clover.' At Madison Square Garden he put on a martial arts show.

We all have an inner strength with the potential of a brick-wall. It doesn't take meditation to surpass hurdles, but a strong-as-iron determination to prove you're right. When I started out in PTA as a young mother, 5'l", 97 lbs., as a local unit president, I was given the honor and silver platter from the female school principal who called me a "brick-wall." Unlike those who preceded me, I did not acquiese to her rein over fund-raising profits. We paid for necessary items such as a paved area and playgfround at the school but would not finance building repairs -- that was the responsibility of the school board. I learned my speaking ability by appearing before them (and getting my way through friendly persuasion) on occasion, and conducting the PTA Meetings. As Regional Director, I visited and informed units throughout thirteen counties, which included the famous Tullahoma, Tennessee -- near Lynchburg.

Joseph was such a sensation that articles about him appeared in 'The Sun,' 'New York Journal,' 'New York American,' 'New York Telegram,' and 'New York Post,' as well as 'Buffalo Evening Times.' He proved that sometimes little is big and here's great strength in small packages.

Finally acknowledging his Jewish heritage, in 1978, he appeared with his protege, Slim Farman (who towered over him), in a black tunic with a Star of David over the chest. He was an old man, age 85, with white hair, beard, and mustache. He had achieved "the impossible."

Ever heard of man bite through tempered iron with his teeth...or hang from an airplane by his hair? Just because you may not have heard of Joseph "Mighty Atom" Greenstein or his accomplishments it does not mean you should ignore this book, quite the opposite in fact. I got this book as a young child in the 1980's and have read it many times. A riveting and inspirational read. Anyone interested in sports, martial arts, nutrition, spirituality or just looking for a self help guide would be wise to read this. A fascinating life with lessons for all of us...not just philosophical but practical too. Joseph Greenstein was not only the strongest man in the world, he was a giant of a character...raising a large family and much money for charity, providing health lectures and products for thousands of poor Americans. If I had just ten books on a desert island this would be one of them.

I love this book. It is funny, touching, memorable, humble, inspiring and all together delightful. I don't like Della's singing, don't know much about her acting. What captured me is her marvelous personality, her smile, her uncommon commonness. There are parts of this book I will carry with me to my grave.

Della Reese is like a streetcar to ecstatic experience. She knows the way to abundance consciousness and she will stop at whatever stop you need to get you there, because it's on her route. This is no airy fairy lady. She tells it totally like it is in this earthy, raw, absolutely beautiful and hilarious tale of her life adventure from Detroit's "Black Bottom" slums to the hills of Bel Air.

If you have ever felt excluded or ridiculed, had a jones for the wrong person or the wrong lifestyle, suffered a broken heart or known there was something great in you, no matter what anyone had to say about it, her words will pick you up and put you right on the trolley!

Like her early mentor, Mahalia Jackson, she fills herself with God-Essence and breathes it out sweetly and powerfully, right to your center, taking you on a trip to exactly the place she wants for you, which is home. Where you are comfortable in your own body and where you know that you are loved.

So, I guess that makes her an "angel", her loving word for people who appear with exactly what you need when you need it, like Nat King Cole, Ed Sullivan and many others did for her. In reading her account, it naturally makes you more aware of how people in your life serve as angels, even when you aren't aware of it at the time.

I first Della's voice when I was a hurtin' little kid, hanging on for dear life, literally, seeking solace in in art and music.
Her jazz voice got me and got me good. Her author's voice, like her voice in gospel, blues, "pop", TV and ministry, it is a voice that tells you of the WHOLE journey from despair to full-out happiness. And that telling causes resonance, so you can feel it, remember it and find your own way to it.

Read this juicy, juicy book! "Period. The end."

This book is wonderful! I love Touched by an Angel, and am a big fan of Della's (Have to buy some of her music someday!) This book really captures Della's effervescent, full-of-life, no-nonsense style. It reads just as if Della was sitting right there in your living room talking right to you. It is full of amazing stories and straight talk about her ups and downs professionally and personally, and the one thing that shines through so very clearly is her powerful and strong faith in God and how He and the human "angels" in her life have brought her through. You really feel you get to know her--her personality sparkles in every chapter. I loved this book.

Having been exposed to Ms. Reese's multi talents throughout my growing up years, I just now finished reading her book which covers the time period from her birth until 1997. And I am glad I did!
Ms. Reese is what I consider a "real" person as she is so wonderfully candid in everything she says and does. The story she tells in her book is no different as she recollects even the details in great honesty.
Her story is very inspiring and uplifting as she teaches her life's lessons in the tribulations she forged through.
If you've ever wanted to sit down and have a chat with Ms. Reese (And who wouldn't?) but couldn't, reading through these pages is the next best thing. It's almost as good as hearing her voice right beside you with her words, smooth and flowing.
I highly recommend this flawlessly written book. It is everything that Della Reese is - interesting, witty, inspiring, intelligent, gutsy, full of love and hope and just like her, it teaches straight from the heart.
BRAVO!!!...THANK YOU!!!... and...ENCORE!!!

This is a very interesting book, that makes you want to keep reading and reading. It focuses mainly on her early years and how she started in the music business, then onto her role as an actor, teacher and preacher. The stories of her life make you feel as though you know her on a more personal level. She speaks in very plain language so it is easy to understand what she is saying. Many people can relate to different parts of her life. You would have never expected some of the things that she has gone though. She has been though many ups and downs in her life and is not afraid to discuss them. She is very open and honest and I applaud her for that. This was very informative. This has made me want to read more biographies of other famous people.

as a fan of lou costello all my life i never really new much about the real lou till i read this book by his daughter chris.This is a must read for any of lou"s fans as it will make you feel all his highs and lows.

Like every kid in America, afternoons after school meant watching television and who better to watch than Abbott and Costello?

This book took me by surprise. For years I heard stories about the tragic events that happened in Lou Costello's personal life but somehow images of him in HOLD THAT GHOST or bothering the Andrews Sisters didn't jive with those images.

Lou's daughter, Chris, wrote a loving tribute to her father that is accurate, on point but never gets syrupy sweet. Nor is it a "Daddy Dearest" where she portrays anyone as a monster.

Although she was not born at the time, Chris traces her father's roots from New Jersey all the way through vaudeveille and finally Hollywood. In a sesntive way, she recounts the tragic loss of Lou's son, Butch and with just as much delicacy she handles the problems of her mother's drinking.

Although I would have liked to have had a better insight into what went on as the team created some memorable movie scenes, Chris concentrates solely on the man. You put down the book and wonder how Lou Costello - plaqued with IRS problems as well as health issues - could be so funny and so giving all the time.

Even if you are not an A&C fan, this book will show you the side of a professional comedian who gave the gift of laughter to others despite his own problems.

I found out from a local bookstore that this particular edition of Lou Costello's life was out of print and that their supplier unable to procure. The bookstore reminded me to check with Amazon and there it was. You had one copy which I quickly scooped up. Delivery was even a day earlier than stated. Very pleased as always with Amazon website, products and delivery

Starts with his early years.
The beginning of Abbott & Costello.
21 years later , the break-up of Abbott & Costello.
They were two opposites.
One didn't drink, one drank heavily.
Offstage: one loud jokster, one quiet & reserved.
Both gambled heavily.
Lou's long illness.
Death of Lou's son. Plus More.

It seems as though a lot of bios written by the children of famous parents run to the two extremes of villifying the parent or sugarcoating the parent. This book does neither, and fits nicely in between. Though Ms. Costello was only eleven years old when her dad passed on, and therefore didn't know or remember him in the same way as if he had passed on when she was an adult, she does still manage to be both loving and honest in her treatment of him. The Lou Costello who comes to life in these pages is largely a really nice generous guy, who was absolutely devoted to his parents, children, siblings, wife (even if he didn't show much physical affection around others, since that wasn't part of his upbringing), and friends, and who was also very generous and kind to the other performers he worked with, particularly the ones who were just getting started in the business and needed someone to look out for them and show them the ropes. And while it is true that some people really are so uniformly good, Ms. Costello does not paint her father as an utter saint either. There's not a lot of dirt to dig up, but not everything about him was perfect. Among the character/personal flaws she discusses are his habit of stealing stuff from Universal's movie sets, how he was quite the McCarthyist, and his bad gambling habits.

The book seems like much more of a personal bio than a career bio. It focuses on Lou and his family and friends, instead of rehashing a lot of stories most fans have heard already. Most of his movies aren't discussed in any detail at all, many of them just mentioned in passing, and while this might frustrate people who are looking for more in-depth information on that rather important side of his life, you can always find more thorough discussions of the movies in another book. This book is to tell the personal side of his life, as remembered and researched through the eyes of a daughter who loved him. I really enjoyed reading about things such as his early family life, the beautiful lavish mansion he had in Sherman Oaks, his family's life on the ranch they moved to after his problems with the IRS, his relationship with his parents, siblings, wife, and children, and his solo acting at the end of his career. With obvious notable exceptions such as the tragic loss of his only son days before his first birthday, the start of his movie career, and the version of "Who's on First" that he and Bud Abbott used on their debut radio performance of it, most of the stories and anecdotes in this book aren't to be found anywhere else. It goes beyond and doesn't dwell on oft-repeated statements such as "He was never the same after the loss of his son" and "He and Bud Abbott didn't get along off-camera." The truth is so much more interesting. Overall, it's the complete and personal picture of a very talented, funny, giving, sweet man, delving beyond simplistic stereotypes and myths.

Okay, so you like Blondie, which by the way is a group. Making tracks reflects the band in ways that the fans and the public do not often see. Mostly Debbie is doing the writing here expressing her thoughts on everything from Peter Leeds to touring throughout the world. It is quite a tale especailly in the early days when the group was struggling. The book itself is what I would deem to be a work of art, it describes more than just the rock and roll business it describes on how Debbie and the band actually felt throughout. I as a huge Blondie fan would suggest that you add this gem to your collection.

Debbie's writing style (as ingested and regurgitated by Victor Bockris) is attractrively candid, humorously intimate, and appealingly self-effacing. Debbie tells her story simply and with no frills and no excuses. She lovingly describes details of the CBGB's music scene of the late '70's down to the last detail, with a touching respect for her peers and nary a bad word to say about anyone. includes exerpts from diaries Debbie wrote on the road as well as reformatted material from various obscure magazine interviews circa 1977-1981, but editor Bockris blends it all so well it reads like one coherent monologue. In actuality, Bockris has morfed Harry and Stein's voice into one here, so it's impossible in some areas to know who is speaking. In interviews, Debbie has made reference to a "third" person that she and Stein create when they're together. You might say that person is the true author of "Making Tracks". Travelogue-style photos by Stein skimp on glamour-Debbie but compensate by invoking the environment from which she and the band sprung!

This book consists of photos by Chris Stein-a fair to good amateur photographer-and text by Victor Bockris (a somewhat pedantic writer) of Deborah Harry's ongoing commentary, essentially, of her and her band's history from her childhood to the current state of the band when it was first published circa 1982. I can remember buying a copy when it was first introduced at a mall bookstore which is now a storefront church: I can even remember that the counter clerk's name was Lillian, the name of Debbie's character in the fine film "Union City". (She was less than impressed, commenting that Blondie was a terrible band and that no woman except for Janis Joplin should be allowed in the rock section in record stores. They were very much _record_ stores in those days-I had at that point never seen a CD.)

It's remarkable in that Debbie was as close to a major league rock star as she was ever to be in the United States at that point, and her observations-recorded when Madonna had yet to achieve any success-on fame and media attention are even more notable for the timeframe in which they were written.

The photos are the reason most fans, particularly males, bought the book. Debbie shows off her pert, teenlike assets (at well over 30 she had the body of a high school cheerleader, boyish compared to Jayne, Marilyn or Brigitte but very desirable nonetheless and far more feminine than, say, Jamie Lee Curtis, who was appearing in the altogether in films in that timeframe) brazenly, investigates the world (particularly Europe and the Far East) with curiosity and is shown with many of the rock and film icons of the past and then-present, including Chuck Berry (whom, Deb told this writer, attempted to finger her then), Robert Fripp, Ellie Greenwich, and others. Chris is with Pierre Salinger, Debbie-who never did get to meet her own primary idol Marilyn Monroe-wears a MM dress from "Some Like It Hot", which she bought at the time she and Chris lived in penury. (Sadly it was involved in a fire, it would now likely be worth tens of thousands of dollars-the gown Marilyn wore to serenade JFK sold for a seven figure (US$) sum.)

This book in short is a delightful piece of fluff from the era which still will fascinate fans of Blondie and the New York scene in those years. It's not a serious work and won't change anyone's life but anyone who likes the tasty rock music of Blondie, the underrated vocal and acting talents of Deborah Harry, or is fascinated by that place and time for edgy popular culture will enjoy this.

I purchased this book when it first came out in 1982 and am glad to see it's still in print. It was very hard to find back then. "The Rise of Blondie" gives an fascinating history of Debbie Harry-her childhood, what her high school years were like, how she moved to NY and began her music career, then meeting Chris Stein and getting together with the other band members. There are many unknown, humorous and interesting facts about the group's early years. The pictures are great, also. If you are a diehard fan, like me, this will become one of your favorite books. I highly recommend it!

"Making Tracks: The Rise of Blondie" is a unique book -- part road diary, part band memoir. Rock biographer Victor Bockris teamed with Debbie Harry and Chris Stein to produce this book, a quirky and enlightening view of Blondie's rise to fame. Good anecdotes, wonderful pictures, and an intimate look into what it was like.

Stein and Harry first give us a glimpse of their early lives and childhoods, and then the events that propelled them to the music biz, including early band stuff (like the Stillettoes). They lived in cold apartments run by very strange people (sometimes smoking even weirder stuff), were saved by the cats, performed in the legendary CBGB's, and swirled around the music scene with the Ramones, Television, the Kinks, and now-extinct punk journalists. Then they hit the big time, jetting across the world and clinging to their rough edges.

Harry and Stein have not a single bad thing to say about their musical peers, only pleasant camaraderie. Harry's quirky wit is an easily-acquired taste; she's straightforward and dryly humorous. The parts that are more clearly Stein are a little less vivid to read. At times it's easy to get lost in the prose and forget which is which, however. What's more, the stories are less focused on the perks of fame than on the day-to-day life in a band.

The only problem is that at times, it's necessary to skip back to figure out who the heck so-and-so is, and what connection he had to Stein and Harry. However, Bockris does an excellent job of slipping in articles and written anecdotes by Harry. While the result gets a little bumpy at times, it's overall a smooth ride through the years.

The pictures are a mix of stylized publicity shots (like the pouty "Punkmate" picture) and candids. The candids are wonderful, ranging from Harry wielding a hammer in Japan to a window riddled with bullet holes to makeup for a Giger-inspired music video (truly eerie). The pictures seem spontaneous and natural, and the grubbiness of some of them gives a better idea of what it was like to live there. (Not to mention posing with the Ramones, Nancy Spungeon, Bill Murray, Joan Jett and others)

"Making Tracks: The Rise of Blondie" is not merely for Blondie fans, but for fans of now-classic rock and good music. Witty and humorous, with dozens of great photographs, this is a treasure.

This is a great book, and for the price, you can't go wrong, but the genuine article is the first edition from 1999. Much nicer covers, beautiful color prints. If you only buy one, the first edition is a MUST for any Marilyn Monroe fan!

I absolutely loved this book! It was fantastic. Marilyn Monroe was such a beautiful, talented person and this book definitely shows it. The pictures are sharp and bright and the captions are wonderful. The variety is nothing short of impressive. I highly recommend this "coffee table book" to any Monroe fan!

Now in a revised second edition, Marilyn Monroe: Cover To Cover by Clark Kidder is a unique collection for the fans one of Hollywood's best known personalities, as it features full-color illustrations of numerous magazine covers that showcased this talented actress and American heartthrob. Each picture offers a brief caption or memorable quote (often by Marilyn herself) about the picture, as well as the average selling price for good condition copies of the magazine. Marilyn Monroe: Cover To Cover is a very highly recommended resource for celebrity memorability collectors in general, and Marilyn Monroe fans in particular.

This is an unusual outstanding picture book.

Marilyn in unforgetable pictures.

Thank you!

This thoroughly unique and enjoyable approach to the documentation of Marilyn's career is a comprehensive collection of magazine covers from all around the world, featuring her throughout her career. The whole is an eclectic gathering of photos highlighting her metamorphosis from unknown young model to luminous superstar.

Although many of the more well known American covers are absent, there is plenty here to satisfy! The variety and sheer number of colorful covers is impressive. The memorable quotes that accompany so many of the covers capture the essence of her endearing personality without being an actual biography, and the timeline is a good but brief overview of many of the important events in her life.

Although I am not an avid collector of MM memorabilia, I'm sure the pricing information would be valuable to those who are. I found comparing the various values to be very interesting reading. I can only imagine the painstaking work that went into identifying each of these photos and determining the worth of each cover.

This would be a welcome and unique addition to any MM library - highly recommended!

I have read many books on Mary Pickford but this one was by far the best. I was able to learn about tid bits that I have not seen published in other books. I also felt that while I was reading this book, that I was actually reading about her, herself, not just somone telling a story in order to sell a book. I would reccommend this to anyone who is a fan of hers or silent movies.

This book deserves 5 stars for the pictures alone. They are so big and clear of this beautiful motion picture actress from the silent screen. The text is what I was somewhat disappointed with. There was a lot of technology that was mentioned that I don't really care about. However, the author did bring in little anecdotal details about what was happening to Mary at the time she was making every picture. Picture details also were described-like the arm band her brother, Jack, was wearing indicated that his wife, Olive Thomas, had died. This was very interesting. This book is not a real biography; it is more a filmography and all of Mary's films are written about. My favorite part was the pictures and the picture details, however!!! Great book!

England's Kevin Brownlow brings to life America's Sweetheart, Mary Pickford, in this richly textured and insightful book featuring a myriad of lush and rare photographs chosen by Pickford expert Robert Cushman. Mary Pickford's contribution to cinema is seen in a new light here. Brownlow subtly makes the case that she not only was the most influential woman in the history of cinema, but a visionary force for the film industry itself.

It is difficult in today's climate of instant access to information to understand just how popular Mary Pickford was in her day. She was embraced by the entire world, and reportedly, every twenty four hours 12 1/2 million people saw her on screen. She perfected her craft in an era of film when very few people actually saw her natural acting style for the hard work and genius it was. George Cukor called her the first method actor.

Mary Pickford's career as an actress spanned decades. She did much for women with her strong business savvy and the roles she not only portrayed, but created. A very practical woman by all accounts, her films themselves reflected our better side as human beings and were often sentimental in tone. She didn't play weak characters as many of her contemporaries did. When people walked out of a theatre after seeing a Pickford film, they were often uplifted, feeling generous towards their fellowman.

Brownlow has done a wonderful job of bringing Mary Pickford to life as a three dimensional human being. With all the rare and beautiful photographs here to distract you it would have been easy to have an uninspiring text. But the introduction by Cushman and the lengthy and insightful comments by Brownlow, which includes commentary on each Pickford film, makes this a mesmerizing journey into a life, both on film and off.

There were many things about Mary the public knew, such as the famous Pickfair and her celebrated marriage to Douglas Fairbanks, as well as their friendship with Charlie Chaplin. They knew little, however, of a young girl who virtually had no childhood. Before her career finally took off she was poor in the extreme, sleeping in a chair so long it would take quite some time after owning a bed before she could sleep in any other position.

Some knew of her first marriage to actor Owen Moore, but few knew he was an abusive alcoholic who would drive Mary to seek comfort with actor and director James Kirkwood. They certainly did not know that in 1917, at the height of her fame, Mary almost committed suicide. Though these aspects of Mary's life are only touched upon and not dealt with in depth, it is admirable they are here at all, separating this from other coffee table books.

The photographs are so stunningly beautiful (some never before seen) you may have trouble concentrating on the text. Of particular note are photographs on pages 110, 65, 17, 12, 27, 154, 121, and 66. They are not to be missed.

This lush and informative book, filled with affection for its subject and augmented by rare and breathtaking photographs, is a must own for anyone who loves film. Its overall perspective of America's Sweetheart, and ultimately the world's sweetheart, Mary Pickford, is unmatched. Pick this one up today!

This book is not only a great coffeetable book, full of gorgeous photographs (proving yet again that b&w photography can sometimes be even more stunning than color photography), but also a valuable addition to one's personal library. In addition to all of the great photographs, there's a wealth of information on Mary Pickford--synopses of her films, information on the making of all of her features, information on how Mr. Brownlow came to meet Mary in the mid-Sixties, how these wonderful photographs came to the Academy Library, her career at Biograph Studios in the Aughts and early Teens, and information about her life off-camera. Although since this book only covers her film-making career and not her entire life (it's not meant to be a comprehensive biography), it ends in 1933, with her final film, 'Secrets.' There's so much fascinating information in here, facts that the average fan might not be aware of, like the fact that, even though she was famous for playing little girls and teenagers, she didn't play a little girl until 7 years into her career, and only played a little girl throughout a film in relatively few of her films, or the fact that the reason she wasn't able to have biological children was because of a scene in 'Caprice' (1913) where she had to drag a woman who was much larger than she out of a burning building, which caused serious internal injuries and a bad illness. That wasn't the only time she risked life and limb in pursuit of her art, in these early days when many actors literally put their lives on the line to do stunts or play certain scenes.

Although Mr. Brownlow does have an evenhanded approach to the films, praising them when he feels it's merited and criticising them when that is felt merited, while throughout demonstrating great respect for his subject, the reader shouldn't be made to feel as though these are authoritative opinions. I disagreed with his opinions on some of her films or some of the scenes in them, although generally his comments and personal opinions are kept very professional, not like an overly gushing fanboy or an extremely hard to please critic. One should also be warned that some of these film synopses do contain spoilers; it's one thing to detail the plots of her lost films, since we're never going to be able to see them anyway (though hope springs eternal), but it seems kind of unfair to give away crucial plot details or to basically describe the entire plot instead of just giving a synopsis. One might want to watch all of her major films before reading this if one doesn't like to have the endings or crucial plot details given away. That's a good idea anyway, since this book serves as a valuable companion to the films, providing more insight and background on films one is already familiar with or wants a deeper understanding of.

Like all of Mr. Brownlow's other books, this one too is wonderfully-written and is a great addition to one's library.

If you know nothing else of Mary Pickford just remember that she was an actress who's like we have never seen before nor since-someone without peer.
Born Gladys Smith in Toronto,Ontario,Canada she had a very tough childhood and in her very younger years found herself having to help support her family.These times were to steel her temperment and as she entered into show busines(on stage) her confidence grew as did her determination to succeed for her family and for herself.
In a few years time she had become very successful plying the "boards" of many major and minor vaudeville and playhouses in North America.When she stepped into the Biograph studios in New York City looking for "temporary" work between stage jobs and was introduced to legendary director DW Griffith,fate stepped in and Mary was to pretty much play out the rest of her acting career in front of the camera.
She was to go on to turn Hollywood on its collective ear obtaining more money,power and success no other woman before or since has ever achieved there.She could do it all and DID it; everything from tragedy to comedy and everything in between.
I recommend the reader purchase any of the DVDs now becoming available of her works.
In the meantime purchase THIS wonderful volume of her life in pictures annotated by film historian Kevin Brownlow.Handsomely bound and chock full of pictures dedicated to the first and best "America's Sweetheart".

Technology affects art and the many changes in computer animation and effects means that the art world faces both new challenges and new innovations in 3D modeling. Surprisingly, Peter Ratner explains, the changes mean less technical challenges for artists with more ability to focus on creating art rather than deciphering computer systems - and the second edition of his Mastering 3D Animation is just the place to begin. Ratner is a professor of the topic at James Madison University - and the founder and head of the first computer animation program in Virginia, so his background lends particularly well to discussions. His paintings and computer graphics have received exhibition and acclaim - also a plus for artists seeking more than just a programmer's technical tips.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, from its technical standpoint of working between the program and the supporting 3D theory/thought process that Mr. Ratner provides.

Finding that balance of an artist and technologist from where to launch one's vision and future visions of creativity starts with good knowledge. Ratner gives many facets of where to see this vision and tutorials to follow through with your own creative projects.

I commonly work with many high-end graphics programs, Lightwave 7.0 being my newest program on my plate. Peter Ratner's 3d book getting me from a begining user from just reading the index to a 3D artist ready to start the new facets of my own portfolio. Mastering 3D Animation helped quite a bit everything from the Modeling and subdivides to the theory/progress.

Joseph Arthur
Information Architects, Principal

Peter J. Ratner's second authoring effort, Mastering 3D Animation, is a 333-page softcover text that is a comprehensive, detailed and practical tutorial guide addressing nearly every aspect and segment of the 3D graphics genre. The book's 14 chapters-and accompanying follow-along CD for PC and Mac-speak to modeling (beginning and advanced), animation, special effects, lighting, surfacing techniques, facial animation, elements of action, figure movements and composition and cinematography. It's an exceptionally capable complement to Ratner's first book, 3-D Human Modeling and Animation. (Ratner currently is updating the latter text with a wholesale rewrite.)

Make no mistake: This is no cursory guide to constructing simple geometry, slapping on some stock textures, animating basic movements along spline paths and rendering to AVI while you're sipping on a latte, watching the Discovery Channel. A full-time professor in the 3D Computer Animation department of James Madison University and the program's founder, Ratner relies on the broad and substantial digital and conventional art experience that has rewarded him with artistic entries in more than 80 national and international juried exhibitions. Ratner is well-versed in most aspects of 3D art creation, choreography and cinematography. The results of his industry experience are a splendid collection of detailed and refined insights and experiences assimilated into a thorough tutorial guide. I have no doubt-as many experts agree-that Mastering 3D Animation is equipped to serve as a collegiate-level textbook for 3D computer animation curricula.

Spanning the many processes related to generating 3D digital art, Ratner illustrates his critical techniques with 658 black-and-white line drawings and grayscale screen captures. The images vary from basic and sketchy but illustrative black-only perspectives, steps and graphs to grayscale representations depicting character renderings, particle systems, height fields, geometric displacements, facial close-ups, rendered environments and more. Of particular interest to those having cinematography or traditional art backgrounds are the commentary, instructions and grayscale reproductions of painted and sketched art dating back multiple centuries.

Those attending to a more technical emphasis and interest are accommodated in every respect, however-minus superficial references to hardware specifications. Early on, Ratner clarifies his intentions in composing this text: "[The book's] purpose is not to create button pushers who can boast about megahertz, abundant RAM, big monitors and software with all kinds of bells and whistles. It is hoped that aspiring 3D artists will learn some valuable lessons from the great art geniuses that have preceded them." (Foreward/vii) Yes, Ratner does wane philosophical, at times, but his contemplative tendencies bring a refreshing and purist perspective to a field frequently inundated by overly technical meanderings and functionally pointless rambling. Thus, Ratner blends an in-depth artistic and technical knowledge with a practicality and philosophy altogether forming a well-rounded perspective-one catering to persons of various inclinations and backgrounds.

The companion CD contains 200-plus 3D models in a variety of formats: LightWave 3D's .lwo and .lws; Wavefront's .obj; Maya's .ml and the generic .dxf. Tutorial project files are archived in QuickTime (.mov) and JPEG (.jpg) formats, and Ratner also includes a Photoshop brush file (.abr) for creating "grime" textures.

As for the text's informational composition, chapters one and two explore the basics of 3D modeling-polygonal and spline-based (NURBS). Chapter 3 addresses basic 3D animation, while the fourth delves further into animation by considering the role of deformation tools: skeletons ("bones"); kinematics; lattice flexors, etc. In Chapter 5, Ratner explains special effects, including the use of spheres, particles, collision detection, voxels, fragments, displacement mapping and more. Part II of the text, Advanced 3D Modeling, begins with commentary about the human head's structure and composition, including muscles and bone. Ratner explains both the NURBS- and polygon- based methods for modeling the head. Special attention is allotted to features, such as the eyes, eyelids, eye sockets and ears. There's no lack of detail, here, and NURBS fans will experience a rare sensation-a feeling of belongingness.

The next two chapters, six and seven, are devoted to modeling the human figure. The latter stresses finishing-hair, eyelashes and clothing. Chapters 9 and 10 comprise Part III: Preparing for Animation. Lighting is the focus of Chapter 9, and Chapter 10-another that may appeal particularly to conventional artists-deals with surfacing techniques. The author goes beyond the typical texture map types-cylindrical, planar, spherical, cubic, etc.-and the use of photos to address alternative surfacing methods, such as transparency (alpha) and displacement maps. In short, Ratner extends well beyond the conventional surfacing methods most highly publicized, deeply exploring what might be categorized more aptly as upper-echelon trade tips than as common genre knowledge: creating sophisticated bump maps; using grayscale gradients in displacement; and more.

Part IV of the book, Character Animation Fundamentals, includes chapters 11-14: Expressing Emotion with Facial Animation (11); The Elements of Action (12); Movements of the Figure (13); Composition and Cinematography (14). Once again, the author uses an expansive knowledge of choreography and anatomy to help quantify how human emotions are exhibited: body posturing; eye wideness; lip contour; eyebrow position; even directional muscular pull. Each of these considerations can be projected in a 3D figure, and Ratner shows the reader how. "A muscle is composed of a bundle of fibers that work in mutual association to perform common duties," Ratner writes on Page 248. "... It is this combination of movements that results in the complicated harmony of the facial muscles."

The Elements of Action chapter confronts those issues pertinent to a convincing human portrayal by a mere collection of polygons or surfaced curved lines: timing; sound syncing; weight and recoil ("squash and stretch"); walk cycles and more. Chapter 13 addresses concerns complementary to those in the previous one, including body mass motion, pace and impact, equilibrium, action lines, rhythm and still more. The final score of this harmonized tutorial prose pursues line composition, spatial arrangement, blocking (proxy geometry) and all manner of photographic issues and techniques. The reader will learn practical cinematography terminology-camera techniques and movements, transitions, more-and the fundamental tenets of motion depiction utilized by artists centuries earlier.

Mastering 3D Animation is a wonderful book, full of useful information that you will refer to again and again. It covers many complicated issues in an easy-to-understand way so that beginners and advanced users alike can grasp the information. Definately a title that will remain in your library for years to come.

Although a nice book that goes into depth in areas that other modeling books haven't, the generalized, not-to-mention-one-specific-application approach the author has taken left me, a beginner, bewildered and drooling. Also, I think some of what isn't explained in detail was not explained purposely as it was difficult to put into words and considered common sense, which seems to be the case with several tutorials and books that I've read on modeling. I want to know things like: Once I have my splines slapped down in a front perspective, how do I push and pull them properly from other perspectives so they'll take shape, or When defining detail with polygons, how many should I tesselate, how can I manipulate them to look like a gradual bump for a muscle and not a sharp cornered cliff? To sum it up, the book was written for the more experienced and those who are very well aquainted with their software packages-I was expecting step-by-step modeling for newbies.

Peter Jennings was taken from us at the pinnacle of his
career. He shaped the news in many areas like the
ABC Nightly News. The book provides many specifics about
his life and career. There are memorable pictures
contained throughout the book. i.e.
o The Miss Canada Pageant of 1965
o various political conventions
o the Munich Olympics
o the Clinton Presidential Inaugural of 1997
o a meeting with Mikhail Gorbachev in 1991

The acquisition would be perfect for persons interested
in journalism, politics and government.

This book is purchased for our Book Club for next year's books. Several of our members had read it to be sure it was okay. It was difficult to purchase - first we had to wait till it was published (you know how THat goes!) and then the price was exhorbitant (that was overcome) and finally it joined the other books we purchased for the Club. Oh, and say, did I mention that this is a book for next year's selections? and that it will be much like "saving it for dessert?" I haven't read it yet either - just scanned through it, and therefore I know it to be the "icing on the cake."

I was never a regular viewer of Peter Jennings' news broadcast or any of his documentaries, but now I wish I was.

This book pointed out all the great time, effort and blood, sweat and tears that Peter Jennings put into all segments of his broadcast and documentaries. He did not take his anchor position lightly and wanted all viewers to share his same passion and understanding of the subjects he was speaking.

It also went into great depth to speak of the man that none of us saw on his nightly newscasts. One who was such a humanitarian and lover off people from all different walks of life.

This book kept my attention and made me feel sad that I did not pay closer attention to his newscast while he was still with us.

If you loved Peter Jennings you will love this book. It was written in an innovative style by way of an amalgam interviews with his colleagues. If you are looking for dirt on Peter skip this book, but if you want to relive the hundreds of wonderful hours you spent with him on your TV, this book does the trick. Your memory might also be jogged when you read the many adjectives describing him in the book: charming, distinctive, exuberant, thoughtful, reflective, gracious, caring, sincere, whimsical, questioning, authentic, direct, gentle of spirit, warm, great sense of humor, intelligent.

I loved the insight many of the contributors gave, as well as the quotes from Peter: "He connected with every person he met. He didn't use them." "He had this life force that seemed to surround him--his enthusiasms, his boundless energy and curiosity. He was one of those people that was just a great sense of nirvana to be around." "And when he was faced with the actual test, he instantly did the right thing." Peter: "Be spare, be precise, take your time, and don't say too much. Let each work carry the weight of the story....communicate in a concise way."

Peter would ask, "What are we going to do today what will distinguish us?" He despised predictability, mediocrity of any kind, laziness." "Listening to Peter was...riveting." Peter WAS riveting, and so is this book!

Bill Kizorek, CEO, Two Parrot Productions

When ABC newsman Peter Jennings died from lung cancer in 2005, he left a void in the industry that has yet to be filled. Along with the likes of Walter Cronkite, Chet Huntley and David Brinkley, Jennings helped revolutionize television news, sitting on both sides of the desk, transforming the genre from a 15-minute afterthought to a major component of network broadcasting.

The editors of PETER JENNINGS: A REPORTER'S LIFE, including his wife, have collected the thoughts and memories of scores of family, friends and colleagues who are universal in their praise and turned these stories into an oral biography. It seems as if Jennings was almost predisposed to the profession. As the son of one of Canada's most respected radio broadcasters, he got an early start, hosting his own children's show as a nine-year-old. Formal education held little interest for Jennings; these days he might have been diagnosed with ADD. His success, despite dropping out of high school, was truly remarkable.

Jennings was just 26 when he was handed the anchor assignment for ABC News in 1965, a job to which he admitted he was not suited at the time. He earned his stripes by going out into the field --- far, far afield to Europe and the Middle East where he thrived on the exotic surroundings and the action.

The entries in A REPORTER'S LIFE reveal a man in a hurry, ever curious and always willing to do whatever it took to get the job done, even when that meant putting himself in harm's way. Jennings was no "Scud-stud," a term used to describe reporters who made a name for themselves during the first war in Iraq; he didn't even like to fly. But he impressed everyone, from his sound men to heads of state, with his ability to soak up information and present it to his audience.

When he stepped down as an active reporter to once again take over the anchor desk for ABC News, he brought that same restlessness with him. He was a demanding boss, always expecting the reporters to do the same thorough job he did. But his humanity was always evident. During the coverage on 9/11, he wanted the audience to see the devastation of the World Trade Center rather than in-studio shots of him. And he was never afraid to defer to experts or admit he did not know every issue involved.

Many of those interviewed said that Jennings never wanted to be the center of attention, which made his on-air revelation of his illness all the more conflicting. For him, it served as an abject lesson, another chance to educate his viewers.

The format of A REPORTER'S LIFE both works and doesn't work. Since it's not a straightforward biography, it appears choppy at times, a series of mini-monologues interspersed with Jennings's own words. It is also understandably biased; you won't find too many speaking ill of him. On the other hand, these are the people who knew Jennings best, and the book serves as their final chance to pay him tribute.

--- Reviewed by Ron Kaplan

Posted by Roger Hitts on Jul 22, 2007 - 7:19:00 PM

At a time when the attention span of a celebrity-infatuated America lasts about as long as a ride on a bucking bronco, and snarkiness gets passed off as literary enlightenment, it can seem downright amazing that writers even bother crafting a loving, thoroughly researched and sweat-from-the-keyboard tome about the machinations of the Hollywood star system and the secrets behind the people who made our country swoon decades before Brad Pitt ever graced the cover of a tabloid.

Then again, there's not many Tommy Garretts in the world. A self-described chicken farmer who lives in the hinterlands of deep rural Virginia, Garrett has fashioned an incredibly successful career as a Hollywood publicist, radio and TV personality and foremost, an author, all from the relative comfort of the sticks and some 3,000 miles from Tinseltown. Yet he also returns to Los Angeles long enough to pick up new clients, find new writing material and for awards shows. It just shows to remind one that Hollywood is a state of mind - and in my mind, steering a wide berth around the day-to-day meetings at the Creative Artists Agency and hours-long lunches at the Polo Lounge keeps a romanticism toward the magic of movies alive without getting bogged down in the details.

Take Garrett's latest literary offering, So You Want to Be in Pictures - an exhaustingly researched, meticulously crafted book featuring insights and sidenotes, anecdotes and yes, dishy details on the lives of 55 Hollywood haymakers and what made them tick. The cast populating the book range from Golden Era legends such as John Wayne and Bette Davis, to the likes of Darlene Conley, an actress who didn't cross into big screen fame but maintained a rabid following among daytime soap lovers.

In many ways, Garrett may have crafted the perfect book for these times. Garrett is so obviously a student of the bygone era of Hollywood he likely could have fashioned 55 books from the ranks of thespians detailed in So You Want To Be In Pictures. Instead, the readers are given quick hits and peeks into the lives of stars from the inimitable Lena Horne to the 1950s icon and later John Waters pet Tab Hunter. Even those with the shortest attention span won't have to comb back a few pages to figure out what they had just read! But even more than sparing readers from having to learn what Ann Blyth's favorite color was, Garrett offers up something else that gives today's blogging generation something to sink their teeth into - real dish!

For example, in his own straightforward manner, Garrett offers up this about the marriage of Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly:

``What many don't know was that Rainier's first choice for a wife was the blonde bombshell, Marilyn Monroe. What man in the 1950s was not lusting after Monroe -- or that other doomed blonde sexpot, Jayne Mansfield? But between discussions with royal advisors and the Vatican, Rainier figured that Grace Kelly was his best choice. He did, however, fall madly in love with Kelly and probably didn't know that she spent many of the years of her marriage being a serial adulterer. For example, she continued an affair with David Niven until the time of her death."

In the hands of another writer, that paragraph would seem to be provocative for its own sake - but with Garrett, the reader gets the feeling he offers up the marital infidelity in the interest of full disclosure, not simply to be the schoolyard gossip. To be sure, Garrett - whose publicity firm specializes in managing the public lives of the more senior members of the Hollywood community like Clint Walker of TV's Cheyenne fame - has heard and seen more in his life than most, and is uniquely shaped to pass along the lessons he learned and the insights provided from his own, storied career.

What's more, neophyte celeb-watchers will be shocked to learn the exposes of the Hollywood scandal didn't start with Paris Hilton dancing on a tabletop in a Manhattan nightclub. By the very nature of the acting profession, Hollywood has always been a repository for some of the most colorful - and sometimes least judicious - people America has to offer. But many of the stories Garrett offers up in So You Want To Be In Pictures may have been lost to history if Garrett hadn't put in the time and effort to chronicle them.

While dish is plentiful in the book, it never seems ham-handed on Garrett's part - indeed, he throws more bouquets than spitballs at his subjects. Obviously, knowing Garrett's background in show business, he's emotionally invested in the people on which he writes, and it's evident in his turn of the phrase.

It's obvious in this day and age, Garrett could have made a killing knocking out a quickie book rehashing the recent misadventures of Lindsay Lohan. That he decided to take on a meatier subject matter - giving readers a real look inside the people who helped build the film and television industry on the backs of their labor, is certainly to Garrett's credit, even with a lower commercial potential.

After my wife read through an advance copy of So You Want To Be In Pictures, she commented to me, ``Why the heck would anyone want to be involved in that industry? Dumb luck supercedes talent, petty jealousies swallow people whole?" Certainly, the carrot of stardom and adulation looms large on the stick. Even Garrett cautions, ``after you read this book and still have yearning for stardom, you'll gain a great respect for me."

Garrett gained my respect for writing it.


Roger Hitts, two-time United Press International columnist of the year, is a veteran celebrity journalist whose by-lines appear in numerous magazines and newspapers in the U.S. and around the world.

Tommy Lightfoot Garrett- "So You Want To Be in Pictures". This book is a must for anybody who wants to be in pictures, or is just fascinated by the whole 'celebrity' culture. The knowledge and first hand account that Tommy has of the celebrities is amazing. Tommy gives very objective and honest accounts of the stars, and with such integity. One really feels like they are stepping into the celebities lives just for a moment. Tommy gives the book an even personlised feel, by displayed autographed pictures of the Stars.
This boot is particularly insightful for the 'younger' person who isn't too familiar with the 'greats' of yesteryear. The book is very easy to read, and a must for anyone interseted in Hollywood.

Esteemed Hollywood publicist and historian par excellence Tommy Garrett has crafted a brilliant and wonderfully balanced look at nearly 60 industry performers, past and present -- from the biggest superstars (Bette Davis, Bob Hope and Joan Crawford) to its slightly lesser-known, but no less talented, or accomplished, artists (Ruta Lee, Rex Reason, Simone Simon, et al). With a benevolent and even-handed approach that mirrors his own gracious and straightforward personality, Tommy relates several rare (and sometimes, heretofore unknown) tales about these people in a highly ethical and non-exploitive way that makes you feel you know both them, and him, personally. Fair and balanced journalism abounds in this project, and yet it is at all times a fun, and sometimes even boisterous, read!

The approach Tommy has taken to dispense the book's fascinating material is unique. He begins each chapter in a traditional, linear fashion -- telling these people's stories more or less in a straight-line, from their births to their deaths -- but then he backtracks and delves into earlier aspects of their lives to take an even closer look. It is a particularly incisive technique that is all Tommy's and it really holds your attention (much like the man himself)!

The book is liberally peppered with photos and the selections run the gamut from scene stills and portraits to obscure and hard-to-find candids. All are gorgeously rendered and captioned on high-quality paper stock. Wasteland Press has done a fine job with the superb material (both textual and photographic) that Tommy has given them, and their continued alliance is one that every true classic movie fan should pray for!

Despite his youth, Tommy Garrett has accomplished a great deal in the entertainment industry and will continue to reap a healthy harvest of accolades and respect. Tommy's lighthearted public persona belies a serious knowledge of all aspects of show business and it is to his credit that the formidable writing skills he displays in this book are commensurate with his talents as one of the industry's most beloved agents and publicists.

Well done, Mr. Garrett! A superb work, and here's to looking forward to many more books from a TRUE "Hollywood Insider"!!

John O'Dowd

"So You Want To Be In Pictures", by Tommy Lightfoot Garrett, is a book every classic movie buff should own! I never read a book the second time, but this is one book I will! I have the pleasure of living in the same small town he mentions in the book, and the pleasure of having him as a dear friend. In knowing him, I can tell you, that reading his book is like talking to him, and having him share his experiences with these stars. He writes like he talks, and what you come away with after you read this book, is an understanding of the lives of the stars, and an understanding of how much this author cares about what he writes! From his late night e-mails, I know the hours and hard work he put into this book and his newly released book, "The Making of Hollywood Stars". Tommy loves what he does, and it's apparent in every aspect of his books. He wanted this book to be as "timeless" as the stars themselves. Twenty, thirty years from now, this book will be just as interesting to people who love classic movies and the stars that made them, as it is today, because it's movie history. I listen to Tommy's Australian Radio Show every week. By listening, I have learned so many things about the old stars and their movies, that makes their "larger than life" images on the screen, come to life on a human level. This is a writer who really cares about the stars as people, and who really cares about the things he writes about them! You will treasure this book, as much as I treasure the Author....

Tommy Garrett did an outstanding job when he wrote this book. Unfortunately, his publishing company apparently has no one on their staff who is capable of editing anything that is written in the English language.

There are many redundancies, many misspelled words and paragraphs that seem to be transposed making it difficult to read some chapters. I'm not certain that Mr. Garrett had/has the ability to take issue with the publisher with regard to this egregious practice but I think if I were him, I would look for another publisher.